What to do and see in Stranraer, Scotland: The Best Nature & Parks

Welcome to Castle Kennedy Gardens, one of Scotland’s finest gardens, set in 75 acres and offering something for everyone to enjoy. From stunning fauna, to beautiful scenery, sculptured landforms, magnificent walks and popular bird hides, the Gardens are a hidden treasure in South West Scotland and a perfect haven for relaxing and exploring. The gardens and neighbouring Lochinch Castle also host civil and religious weddings and between them offer a diverse range of beautiful wedding venues for ceremonies and celebrations. We have a number of luxurious self-catering holiday cottages too for couples and families which are open for bookings throughout the year. Family home to the 14th Earl and Countess of Stair, the Gardens were the inspiration of the 2nd Earl of Stair in the 1730’s and are famous for colourful displays of Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Embothriums, many rare and exotic plants, 21 Champion Trees and a number of spectacular avenues and the romantic ruins of 16th Century Castle Kennedy. An elaborate series of terraces and land sculptures can be found throughout the Gardens forming stunning patterns of curves and banks. Despite their contemporary look and feel these were constructed in the 1730’s using men with carts and horse drawn equipment to move and mould the landscape. The stunning Avenues in the Gardens were originally planted with specimen seeds given by famous botanical explorer Joseph Hooker. Each Avenue was planted with a single type of tree, many of which can still be seen today. These include the 150 year old Monkey Puzzle Avenue, the Thuja Avenue and the Dettingen Avenue which is lined with evergreen oaks. The beautiful two acre Circular Pond filled with rare Victorian water lilies is also a highlight. Our charming Tea Room is the perfect place to enjoy a light meal of sandwiches, soup, baked potatoes, hot drinks, delicious home-baking and tasty children’s menu. Access to the Tea Room only is available without paying admission to the Gardens, making it an ideal journey break or unique location for a business or social lunch. This year we continue to enhance your visit to our Gardens with a wide range of events and activities for the whole family. These include weekly Ranger Activities which follow a monthly theme and our regular guided garden walks. And the romantic ruins of 16th Century Castle Kennedy provide a stunning backdrop to open air theatre productions. We hope you find a special event of interest to you and your family and enjoy your time in the Gardens.